Behind every Iowa DOT research innovation is a real human being dedicated to helping ideas become reality. Here you can learn more about the Iowa DOT Research staff members and what makes them tick.
Name: Cheryl Cowie, Research Program Planner.
Number of years in this role: 5
What do you do in the Research & Analytics Bureau?
As some of my co-workers are jokingly fond of saying…. If it has dollar signs attached to it, then if falls under my purview.
I track and provide accounting for State and Federal Funding earmarked for research projects. This includes analysis of program budget information, and planning to ensure that funding is available for projects pursued by the department as well as administering federal funding transfers in and out of Iowa.
I initialize projects, track and update commitments, and contributions from partner states within the Federal Financial Management Information System.
I facilitate approval and payment of expenditures for the projects. When I’m not “following the money,” I publish newly contracted projects to the “Research in Progress” and Project Final Reports on the Transportation Research Board’s Website and submit Final Reports to the State Library of Iowa for publication.
Have you always been drawn to research? What has your career path been like?
I initially started my career with the State working for the Department of Human Services, in their Child Support Recovery Unit. For two years I worked with the Attorney General’s office assisting in establishing paternity, and securing child support orders.
I switched direction in 2003 and began working for the Department of Transportation as a Geographic Information Specialist. After 15 years in GIS, a position in the Research Bureau opened up. I was approached and accepted the offer to fill the position and hope to stay until I retire.
What’s your favorite part of your work?
I think my favorite part of my work is the Research team itself. I’ve enjoyed every minute of working with the engineers and support staff.
What do you like to do in your time off?
My time off is filled with various crafts and spending quality time with my five children and 10 grandchildren.
I’m looking forward to retirement so I can devote more time to being with them. I recently purchased my first teardrop camper and have been enjoying my first full season of camping trips and learning all the ins and outs of setting up--and tearing down--my campsite.
I’ve been lucky in that my best friend, and her husband, are avid RVers and have helped me with any learning curves I’ve run into (such as learning how to back up a travel trailer).
This year I’ve camped fairly close to home, but I'm hoping next year to become brave enough to travel out of state to visit family and perhaps camp closer to the ocean.
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